Russia may carry out 'demonstrative actions' near Ukraine border during Belarus exercises – Demchenko

Andrii Demchenko, spokesperson for Ukraine's State Border Guard Service, said this on Ukrainian television, according to Ukrinform.

"We are actively monitoring developments on Belarusian territory, particularly in light of the announced joint exercises between Russia and Belarus. It's important to understand how many Russian forces will be involved and where exactly the drills will take place. According to preliminary reports, in terms of proximity to the Ukrainian border, the exercises are likely to be held deeper within Belarusian territory. At this point, it's hard to say why that is. Perhaps Belarus has certain concerns," Demchenko said.

He added that at this time, there is no evidence that the exercises have entered an active phase. Moreover, there are currently no Russian strike groups in Belarus that would pose a direct threat to Ukraine.

"Our priority is to gather as much information as possible regarding the active phase of the joint drills, as this is when the threat to our country could increase. For instance, we cannot rule out potential demonstrative actions directed toward our border. That's why our main task is to remain prepared for any possible developments," Demchenko said.

He stressed that Belarus continues to support Russia, and for this reason, Ukraine must keep strengthening its defensive capabilities along the border.

Earlier reports said that Ukrainian forces were closely monitoring all activities related to the Russian-Belarusian military exercises scheduled for this autumn.